Eaton spending $54M to expand and renovate Waukesha plants

Eaton Corp., a power management company, plans to spend $54 million to expand one facility and renovate two other facilities, which are part of its Waukesha-based Cooper Power Systems business, according to company officials.

The project, funded partially with $1.36 million in state tax credits from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., is expected to create 200 jobs over the next two years.

The expansion plans are due to the growth of the company's utility, commercial and industrial power distribution products and solutions business.

Eaton is expanding its Badger Drive plant and upgrading the technology used at the Badger Drive, North Street and Lincoln Avenue Power Systems facilities where the company makes electrical equipment. All three plants are in Waukesha.

“Waukesha and the Milwaukee area offer a highly skilled work force and play a vital role in the continued success of Eaton’s business,” said Clayton Tychkowsky, president of Eaton’s Cooper Power Systems Division. “This investment and expansion will provide new manufacturing technology and enhance our regional manufacturing capabilities to help us meet the increasing demand for our products by utility, commercial and industrial customers.”

Gov. Scott Walker said energy has become "a vital and growing component of Wisconsin's economy."

“This project not only solidifies Eaton’s commitment to Wisconsin, but also is an indication that the company is continuing to look toward the future,” Walker said.

The expansion and upgrade project started in January and work will is expected to be completed in mid-2016.